Arizona State University (Tempe campus)

Innovation is fundamentally about empowering people and unlocking their potential to create positive change. That requires a human touch and knowledge of how to put people and communities first, not technology. The BS program in innovation in society is specifically designed to prepare students to be leaders in this exciting and fast-growing field.

The program centers on building a foundational knowledge in innovation while honing skills like scenario planning, policy analysis, the responsible design of innovations, and public engagement. Graduates are equipped to understand the intricacies of modern-day challenges and anticipate and navigate future trends.

The program's small classes, one-on-one opportunities to work with faculty, and extensive community partnerships create a valuable student experience in which students can learn how to develop the imagination, creativity, skills and expertise needed to help envision, plan and implement effective strategies for change. Students learn how to use approaches like policy analysis, foresight and scenario building, knowledge system creation and strategic plan development.

In the program, students explore:

• artificial intelligence --- diving into its potential and grappling with its integration into society
• biotech breakthroughs --- harnessing insights from biotechnologies reshaping the world
• eco-conscious strategy --- merging technology insights with environmental imperatives for sustainable solutions
• emerging technologies --- exploring new technologies like quantum computing and augmented reality and its global impact
• impact on society --- engaging with simulations and projects that reflect technology's societal interplay
• vantage point --- grasping how technology impacts different roles, such as policymaking, technology consulting and digital ethics

Concurrent program options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

• Global Technology and Development, MS
• Public Interest Technology, MS
• Science and Technology Policy, MSTP

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. 

Global opportunities
Global experience 

With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students of all majors, including programs in the College of Global Futures, are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network.

Career opportunities

As the landscape of science and technology rapidly transforms, the demand for graduates with a nuanced grasp of these changes becomes paramount. Across industries, there's a growing need for expertise in interpreting and guiding advancement in science and technology that can improve people's lives.

Graduates are poised for success in a range of sectors including cities, aid agencies, charities and companies that are helping tackle difficult challenges. Alumni have highly sought-after jobs at NASA, Department of Energy, Intel, OpenAI and beyond. Preparation in both theoretical and practical facets of innovation makes graduates invaluable assets in tech startups, corporations, nonprofits and governments